Methods for dispensing and adhering hot melt entrained polymers to substrates

ABSTRACT

Disclosed are an entrained polymer or an entrained polymer composition, and a method for forming and adhering an entrained polymer structure to a substrate using the entrained polymer or an entrained polymer composition. The method includes providing a substrate configured to receive application of a molten entrained polymer. A particulate entrained polymer in molten form is applied in a predetermined shape, to a surface of the substrate, to form a solidified entrained polymer structure on the substrate. The entrained polymer includes a monolithic material formed of at least abase polymer and a particulate active agent. The surface of the substrate is compatible with the molten entrained polymer so as to thermally bond with it. In this way, the entrained polymer bonds to the substrate and solidifies upon sufficient cooling of the entrained polymer.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of Invention

This disclosure relates to an entrained polymer, and to a method forextruding the entrained polymer in a molten state, optionally in anin-line production process. More particularly, the invention relates toapplying and adhering a molten active polymer to a substrate having asurface. The surface includes a material compatible with the moltenactive polymer so as to facilitate a thermal bond thereto.

2. Description of Related Art

There are many items that are preferably stored, shipped and/or utilizedin an environment that must be controlled and/or regulated. For example,in the moisture control field, containers and/or packages having theability to absorb excess moisture trapped therein have been recognizedas desirable. The control of moisture, oxygen, ethylene and othergaseous substances may be desirable in medical, electronics and foodpackaging applications.

Conventionally, desiccants, oxygen absorbers and other active agentshave been used in raw form, e.g., as loose particulates housed insachets or canisters within packaging, to control the internalenvironment of the package. For many applications, it is not desired tohave such loosely stored active substances. To address this problem, theassignee of the present application had developed active entrainedpolymers comprising active agents, wherein such polymers can be extrudedand/or molded into desired forms, e.g., container liners, plugs, filmsheets, pellets and other such structures. Optionally, such activeentrained polymers may include channeling agents, such as polyethyleneglycol (PEG), which form channels between the surface of the entrainedpolymer and its interior to transmit a selected material (e.g.,moisture) to the entrained active agent (e.g., desiccant to absorb themoisture). Entrained polymers may be two phase formulations (i.e.,comprising a base polymer and active agent, without a channeling agent)or three phase formulations (i.e., comprising a base polymer, activeagent and channeling agent). Entrained polymers are described, forexample, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,911,937, 6,080,350, 6,124,006, 6,130,263,6,194,079, 6,214,255, 6,486,231, 7,005,459, and U.S. Pat. Pub. No.2016/0039955, each of which is incorporated herein by reference as iffully set forth.

For some packages, e.g., pouches or blister packs, it is desired toadhere an entrained polymer film or layer to a substrate (e.g., anotherpolymer or a foil) to form the package. One way to do so is by applyingan adhesive to the film or layer during production to adhere it to thesubstrate. This may not be desirable because it requires a step ofapplying a separate adhesive and the adhesive may include solvents thatcan be deleterious to the package contents. An alternative is through aheat staking method which does not require application of a separateadhesive to adhere the entrained polymer film or layer to the substrate.As described in U.S. Pat. No. 8,142,603, which is incorporated byreference herein in its entirety, the heat staking method comprises thesteps of: heating a foil substrate; applying an entrained polymer filmto the foil; and applying sufficient pressure to the film and foilcombination and sufficient heat to the foil so that the film adheres tothe foil.

Heat staking is an improvement over use of conventional adhesives toadhere entrained polymer film to a substrate. However, in large scaleproduction, heat staking typically requires providing a formed film inbulk and applying a cutting step or providing a pre-cut film. This maynot always be desired by a package manufacturer, labeler or filler.There is a need for in-line production methods for applying and adheringa formed entrained polymer to a substrate without having to provide theentrained polymer in a preformed or precut shape. Ideally, the methodwould not require use of a separate adhesive material to adhere theentrained polymer to the substrate. Towards that end, there is a needfor an entrained polymer that is amenable to such an in-line productionprocess. Likewise, the entrained polymer may be provided as aformulation to be formed in the in-line production process.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,605,720 discloses a method of formulating and applyinghot melt adhesives in a continuous in-line operation. However theapparatus and the method are directed to an adhesive polymer that isone-phase, low density and low viscosity. The apparatus and the methodare inapplicable for multi-phase, high density and high viscositymaterials.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Accordingly, in one aspect, an entrained polymer composition isprovided. The entrained polymer composition is formed of at least a basepolymer and a particulate active agent.

Accordingly, in one aspect, the entrained polymer composition has a meltflow index in a range from 200 g/10 min to 5000 g/10 min, optionallyfrom 500 g/10 min to 4500 g/10 min, optionally from 1000 g/10 min to4000 g/10 min, optionally from 1200 g/10 min to 2500 g/10 min under theASTM D1238/ISO 1133 conditions.

Accordingly, in one aspect, the entrained polymer composition has aviscosity in a range from 1,000 cp to 50,000 cp, optionally from 3,000cp to 40,000 cp, optionally from 3,000 cp to 20,000 cp, optionally from3,000 cp to 15,000 cp, optionally from 3,000 cp to 10,000 cp, whereinthe viscosity is measured with a rheometer at 190° C. after shearing at5 Hz for two minutes.

Accordingly, in one aspect, the entrained polymer composition is amonolithic material.

Accordingly, in one aspect, the entrained polymer composition is formedof a base polymer, a flow agent, a particulate active agent, and anoptional channeling agent.

Accordingly, in one aspect, an entrained polymer composition is providedthat when in a molten state forms an entrained polymer structure thatadheres to a substrate.

Accordingly, in one aspect, a method is provided for forming andadhering an entrained polymer structure to a substrate. The methodincludes providing a substrate configured to receive application of amolten entrained polymer. A particulate entrained polymer in molten formis applied in a predetermined shape, to a surface of the substrate, toform a solidified entrained polymer structure on the substrate. Theentrained polymer includes a monolithic material formed of at least abase polymer and a particulate active agent. The surface of thesubstrate is compatible with the molten entrained polymer so as tothermally bond with it. In this way, the entrained polymer bonds to thesubstrate and solidifies upon sufficient cooling of the entrainedpolymer. Preferably, the solidified entrained polymer structure adheresto the substrate without use of a separate adhesive material.

Optionally, in any embodiment, the entrained polymer is at least a twophase formulation.

Optionally, in any embodiment, the entrained polymer is at least a threephase formulation.

Optionally, in any embodiment, the entrained polymer includes achanneling agent.

Optionally, in any embodiment, the entrained polymer includes anadditive.

Optionally, in any embodiment, the additive is a flow agent.

Optionally, in any embodiment, the substrate is a foil; and the surfaceof the substrate is a polymer sealing layer on the foil.

Optionally, in any embodiment, the method is carried out using a hotmelt dispensing apparatus. The apparatus includes a feeder for providinga flow of particulate entrained polymer in molten form. The feeder isoptionally an extruder. The apparatus further includes one or morehoses, each of which having an internal lumen in fluid communicationwith an exit of the feeder to receive flow of the particulate entrainedpolymer in molten form. The lumen terminates at an applicator to whichthe entrained polymer in molten form is conveyed. The applicatorincludes a dispenser for applying the entrained polymer in thepredetermined shape to the surface of the substrate.

Optionally, in any embodiment, the lumen is heated to maintain a moltenstate of the entrained polymer when conveyed through the lumen.

Optionally, in any embodiment, the dispenser is heated to maintain amolten state of the entrained polymer and to facilitate preciseformation of the entrained polymer into the predetermined shape.

Optionally, in any embodiment, the dispenser includes a valve thatalternates between a closed state and an open state so as to preciselyform the entrained polymer structure in the predetermined shape.

Optionally, in any embodiment, the particulate active agent is agranular material that is more abrasive than the base polymer.

Optionally, in any embodiment, the active agent is a desiccant,optionally a molecular sieve, a silica gel, a clay, or another desiccantthat is a granular material that is more abrasive than the base polymer.

Optionally, in any embodiment, the entrained polymer exhibits a meltflow index (MFI) of greater than 500 g/10 min (ASTM D1238/ISO 1133standard method at 190° C. and 2.16 kg).

Optionally, in any embodiment, the entrained polymer exhibits aviscosity of less than 40,000 cP (analyzed using a rheometer withparallel plate geometry, 190° C., shear rate 5 Hz for two minutes).

Optionally, in any embodiment, one or both of the substrate andsolidified entrained polymer structure are flexible materials.

Optionally, in any embodiment, solid entrained polymer pellets areprovided into the feeder and melted to form the entrained polymer inmolten form.

Optionally, in any embodiment, the solidified entrained polymerstructure is in the form of: a sheet, a film, a bead, a dot, a strip ora swirl.

Optionally, in any embodiment, the solidified entrained polymerstructure is in the form of a film having a thickness of from 0.1 mm to1.5 mm, optionally from 0.2 mm to 1.2 mm, optionally from 0.3 mm to 0.8mm. Optionally, if the substrate is a foil, the surface of the substrateis a polymer sealing layer on the foil, and the substrate is a portionof a package for a moisture-sensitive product, optionally wherein thepackage is a flexible package, a pouch or a blister pack.

Optionally, in any embodiment, the method is carried out as part of anautomated, in-line package production process.

Optionally, in any embodiment, the solidified entrained polymerstructure adheres to the substrate without use of a separate adhesivematerial.

Optionally, in any embodiment, the active agent is from 30% to 80%,optionally from 30% to 75%, optionally from 30% to 70%, optionally from35% to 70%, optionally from 40% to 65%, optionally from 45% to 55%, byweight of the entrained polymer.

Optionally, in any embodiment, a composite is made according to methodsdisclosed herein. The composite includes the substrate and thesolidified entrained polymer structure adhered thereto. Optionally, inany embodiment, the composite is a portion of a flexible package, pouchor blister pack.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will be described in conjunction with the followingdrawings in which like reference numerals designate like elements andwherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a plug formed of an entrained polymerthat may be deposited onto a substrate according to methods of thedisclosed concept.

FIG. 2 is a cross section taken along line 2-2 of FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 3 is a cross section similar to that of FIG. 2 , showing a plugformed of another embodiment of an entrained polymer that may bedeposited onto a substrate according to methods of the disclosedconcept;

FIG. 4 is a schematic illustration of an entrained polymer that may beused according to methods of the disclosed concept, in which the activeagent is an absorbing or adsorbing material.

FIG. 5 is a cross sectional view of a sheet formed of an entrainedpolymer, adhered to a harrier sheet substrate according to methods ofthe disclosed concept;

FIG. 6 is a cross section of a package that may be formed according tomethods of the disclosed concept.

FIG. 7 is a schematic illustration of an optional embodiment of a hotmelt dispensing apparatus delivering an entrained polymer in molten formto a substrate.

FIG. 8 is a photograph illustrating an entrained polymer film adhered toa sheet using an optional embodiment of a hot melt dispensing apparatus.

FIG. 9 is a photograph illustrating an entrained polymer strip adheredto a sheet using an optional embodiment of a hot melt dispensingapparatus.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTIONDefinitions

As used herein, the term “active” is defined as capable of acting on,interacting with or reacting with a selected material (e.g., moisture oroxygen) according to the disclosed concept. Examples of such actions orinteractions may include absorption, adsorption or release of theselected material.

As used herein, the term “active agent” is defined as a material that(1) is immiscible with the base polymer and when mixed and heated withthe base polymer and the channeling agent, will not melt, i.e., has amelting point that is higher than the melting point for either the basepolymer or the channeling agent, and (2) acts on, interacts or reactswith a selected material. The term “active agent” may include but is notlimited to materials that absorb, adsorb or release the selectedmaterial(s). An active agent that is particulate in form is referred toherein as a “particulate active agent”. An active agent that is mineralin form is referred to herein as a “mineral active agent”. Active agentsaccording to the disclosed concept may be particulate active agent, but(unless otherwise claimed) the invention should not be viewed as limitedto particulate active agents. Nevertheless, the invention isparticularly suited for entrained polymers formed with a mineral activeagent, for example molecular sieve or silica gel.

As used herein, the term “base polymer” is a polymer optionally having agas transmission rate of a selected material that is substantially lowerthan, lower than or substantially equivalent to, that of the channelingagent. By way of example, such a transmission rate would be a watervapor transmission rate in embodiments where the selected material ismoisture and the active agent is a water absorbing desiccant. Theprimary function of the base polymer is to provide structure for theentrained polymer. Suitable base polymers may include thermoplasticpolymers. e.g., polyolefins such as polypropylene and polyethylene,polyisoprene, polybutadiene, polybutene, polysiloxane, polycarbonates,polyamides, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymers, ethylene-methacrylatecopolymer, poly(vinyl chloride), polystyrene, polyesters,polyanhydrides, polyacrylianitrile, polysulfones, polyacrylic ester,acrylic, polyurethane and polyacetal, or copolymers or mixtures thereof.

Referring to such a comparison of the base polymer and channeling agentwater vapor transmission rate, in one embodiment, the channeling agenthas a water vapor transmission rate of at least two times that of thebase polymer. In another embodiment, the channeling agent has a watervapor transmission rate of at least five times that of the base polymer.In another embodiment, the channeling agent has a water vaportransmission rate ofat least ten times that of the base polymer. Instill another embodiment, the channeling agent has a water vaportransmission rate of at least twenty times that of the base polymer. Instill another embodiment, the channeling agent has a water vaportransmission rate of at least fifty times that of the base polymer. Instill another embodiment, the channeling agent has a water vaportransmission rate of at least one hundred times that of the basepolymer.

As used herein, the term “base polymer material” is defined as amaterial that includes a base polymer and optionally an additive. Whenno additive is added, the base polymer material is made of the basepolymer. Optionally, the base polymer and the additive are miscible.

As used herein, the term “additive” is defined as a material added tothe base polymer to alter certain properties. Optionally, an additive isa flow agent to modulate at least the melt flow index or the viscosityof the base polymer and thus those of the entrained polymer.

As used herein, the term “channeling agent” or “channeling agents” isdefined as a material that is immiscible with the base polymer or basepolymer material and has an affinity to transport a gas phase substanceat a faster rate than the base polymer or the base polymer material.Optionally, a channeling agent is capable of forming channels throughthe entrained polymer when formed by mixing the channeling agent withthe base polymer or the base polymer material. Optionally, such channelsare capable of transmitting a selected material through the entrainedpolymer at a faster rate than in solely the base polymer or the basepolymer material.

As used herein, the term “channels” or “interconnecting channels” isdefined as passages formed of the channeling agent that penetratethrough the base polymer and may be interconnected with each other.

As used herein, the term “entrained polymer” is defined as a monolithicmaterial formed of at least a base polymer material with an active agentand optionally also a channeling agent entrained or distributedthroughout. An entrained polymer thus includes a polymer with at leasttwo phases or at least three phases. An entrained polymer having anactive agent that is particulate in form is referred to herein as a“particulate entrained polymer”. An entrained polymer having an activeagent that is mineral in form is referred to herein as a “mineralentrained polymer”.

As used herein, the term “entrained polymer composition” is defined asan entrained polymer or a formulation giving rise to an entrainedpolymer.

As used herein, the term “monolithic,” “monolithic structure” or“monolithic composition” is defined as a composition or material thatdoes not consist of two or mom discrete macroscopic layers or portions.Accordingly, a “monolithic composition” does not include a multi-layercomposite.

As used herein, the term “phase” is defined as a portion or component ofa monolithic structure or composition that is uniformly distributedthroughout, to give the structure or composition its monolithiccharacteristics.

As used herein, the term “selected material” is defined as a materialthat is acted upon, by, or interacts or reacts with an active agent andis capable of being transmitted through the channels of the entrainedpolymer. For example, in embodiments in which a desiccant is used as anactive agent, the selected material may be moisture or a gas that can beabsorbed by the desiccant. In embodiments in which a releasing materialis used as an active agent, the selected material may be an agentreleased by the releasing material, such as moisture, fragrance, or anantimicrobial agent. In embodiments in which an adsorbing material isused as an active agent, the selected material may be certain volatileorganic compounds and the adsorbing material may be activated carbon.

As used herein, the term “three phase” is defined as a monolithiccomposition or structure, comprising three or more phases. An example ofa three phase composition that may be used according to the disclosedconcept would be an entrained polymer formed of a base polymer, activeagent, and channeling agent. Optionally, a three phase composition orstructure may include an additional phase, e.g., a colorant.

Entrained Polymers Suitable for Methods of Invention

One of the difficulties in processing molten particulate or mineralentrained polymers is providing a substantially consistent shear of themolten material conveyed through an extruder and thereafter maintainingthe molten state of the material through the point of dispensing. Thiswould not typically be problematic for a simple “one phase” polymer or amixture of molten polymers. However, including a granular, abrasivemineral component in the formulation, such as a typical desiccant (e.g.,molecular sieve or silica gel), introduces complexity to the process.Such granular mineral components interfere with achieving the consistentshear necessary to convey the entrained polymer through the extruder andto maintain it in a molten state when dispensed so as to apply themolten entrained polymer in a predetermined shape to a surface of asubstrate to form thereon a solidified entrained polymer structure(e.g., film). Those problems are particularly acute when the granularmineral components are at high loading levels.

From the perspectives of material science and fluid mechanics, theviscosity of the entrained polymer is known to vary and decreases withincreasing shear rate. This non-newtonian, pseudoplastic materialcreates challenges in mixing and handling as its thixotropic structureprogressively breaks down on shearing and slowly rebuilds at rest. Theterm “thixotropic structure” is based on the following definition for“thixotropy”: a term used in rheology which means that the viscosity ofmaterial decreases significantly with the time of shearing and then,increases significantly when the force introducing the flow is removed.

The inventors have found that a standard particulate or mineralentrained polymer in accordance with U.S. Pat. No. 7,005,459 isdifficult to process using standard tank melting systems because noshear is introduced in the standard tank melting systems; rather, onlyheat is used. In the absence of shear thinning, the high viscosity atlow shear stress is too great and thus will not allow the material toflow/dispense as its thixotropic behavior wants to resist any flowing.The high viscosity is compounded by the high density of the particulateor mineral entrained polymer. A particulate or mineral entrained polymercompound in molten form requires constant pressure and shearing throughan extruder for flowing to occur, which may be facilitated using apressurized tank melting system. A pressurized tank melting system usesa pneumatic cylinder to push a plate against the entrained polymer.

In addition to the challenges described above, the rheology of theentrained polymer needs to enable clean melt filament formation upondischarge onto the surface of the substrate. Otherwise, the resultingdefects, such as angel hair and tails, render the dispensing processinefficient and costly. Further, for effective bonding to the surface ofthe substrate, the entrained polymer and the surface of the substrateneed to be chemically compatible.

The inventors have developed an entrained polymer composition for anin-line process utilizing a standard tank melting system without mixing,and an applicator to efficiently dispense the molten entrained polymerin a predetermined shape to the surface of a substrate.

In one embodiment, the entrained polymer composition comprises at leasta base polymer material and an active agent. In another embodiment, theentrained polymer composition comprises at least a base polymermaterial, an active agent, and a channeling agent.

In another embodiment, the base polymer material comprises a basepolymer and an optional additive.

Suitable base polymers may include thermoplastic polymers, e.g.,polyolefins such as polypropylene and polyethylene, polyisoprene,polybutadiene, polybutene, polysiloxane, polycarbonates, polyamides,ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymers, ethylene-methacrylate copolymer,poly(vinyl chloride), polystyrene, polyesters, polyanhydrides,polyacrylianitrile, polysulfones, polyacrylic ester, acrylic,polyurethane and polyacetal, or copolymers or mixtures thereof.

The additive may be a filler, a flow agent, a colorant, a plasticizer,or a stabilizer. In one embodiment, the additive is a flow agent. In anoptional embodiment, the flow agent is a low molecular weightpolyolefin, a low molecular weight oligomeric olefin, a polyolefin, or amodified polyolefin. In another optional embodiment, the flow agent is anatural, derived or synthetic wax. Naturally occurring waxes includeanimal, vegetable and mineral types, with the most common being themicrocrystalline and paraffin mineral types. Synthetic waxes arepolyethylene, polypropylene and Fischer-Tropsch waxes. These waxes maybe homopolymers, where the polymer chain is based upon one monomer unit,such as ethylene, or they may be copolymers based upon two or moreunits, such as ethylene and vinyl acetate. Synthetic homopolymers orcopolymers may also be functionalized in a modification step. The typesof wax are not particularly limited in the chemical structure. In anoptional embodiment, the flow agent is a paraffin, a low molecularweight polyethylene, a low molecular weight polyethylene derivative,ethylene bis(stearamide) (EBS), or cetyl palmitate.

Suitable channeling agents may include a polyglycol such as polyethyleneglycol (PEG), ethylene-vinyl alcohol (EVOH), polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH),glycerin polyamine, polyurethane and polycarboxylic acid includingpolyacrylic acid or polymethacrylic acid. Alternatively, the channelingagent 35 can be, for example, a water insoluble polymer, such as apropylene oxide polymerisate-monobutyl ether, such as PolyglykolB01/240, produced by CLARIANT. In other embodiments, the channelingagent could be a propylene oxide polymerisate monobutyl ether, such asPolyglykol B01/20, produced by CLARIANT, propylene oxide polymerisate,such as Polyglykol D01/240, produced by CLARIANT, ethylene vinylacetate, nylon 6, nylon 66, or any combination of the foregoing.

Suitable active agents according to the disclosed concept includeabsorbing materials, such as desiccating compounds. If the active agentis a desiccant, any suitable desiccant for a given application may beused. Typically, physical absorption desiccants are preferred for manyapplications. These may include molecular sieves, silica gels, clays andstarches. Alternatively, the desiccant may be a chemical compound thatforms crystals containing water or compounds which react with water toform new compounds.

Optionally, in any embodiment, the active agent may be an oxygenscavenger.

Suitable absorbing materials may also include: (1) metals and alloyssuch as, but not limited to, nickel, copper, aluminum, silicon, solder,silver, gold; (2) metal-plated particulates such as silver-platedcopper, silver-placed nickel, silver-plated glass microspheres; (3)inorganics such as BaTiO₃, SrTiO₃, SiO₂, Al₂O₃, ZnO, TiO₂, MnO, CuO,Sb₂O₃, WC, fused silica, fumed silica, amorphous fused silica, sol-gelsilica, sol-gel titanates, mixed titanates, ion exchange resins,lithium-containing ceramics, hollow glass microspheres; (4) carbon-basedmaterials such as carbon, activated charcoal, carbon black, ketchemblack, diamond powder; (5) elastomers, such as polybutadiene,polysiloxane, and semi-metals, ceramic and; (6) other fillers andpigments.

In another example, the absorbing material may be a carbon dioxidescavenger, such as calcium oxide. In the presence of moisture and carbondioxide, the calcium oxide is converted to calcium carbonate.Accordingly, calcium oxide may be used as the absorbing material inapplications where absorption of carbon dioxide is needed. Suchapplications include preserving fresh foods (e.g., fruits andvegetables) that give off carbon dioxide.

Other suitable active agents according to the disclosed concept includereleasing materials. Such materials may comprise any suitable materialthat will release the selected material from the releasing material. Theselected material released from the releasing material could be in theform of a solid, gel, liquid or gas. These substances can perform avariety of functions including: serving as a fragrance, flavor, orperfume source; supplying a biologically active ingredient such aspesticide, pest repellent, antimicrobials, bait, aromatic medicines,etc.; providing humidifying or desiccating substances; deliveringair-borne active chemicals, such as corrosion inhibitors; ripeningagents and odor-making agents.

Suitable biocides for use as releasing materials in the entrainedpolymers of the disclosed concept may include, but are not limited to,pesticides, herbicides, nematacides, fungicides, rodenticides and/ormixtures thereof. In addition to the biocides, the covering of thedisclosed concept can also release nutrients, plant growth regulators,pheromones, defoliants and/or mixture thereof.

Quaternary ammonium compounds can also be used as releasing materialsaccording to the disclosed concept. Such compounds not only function assurfactants, but also impart to the surface of the entrained polymeraseptic properties or establish conditions for reducing the number ofmicrobial organisms, some of which can be pathogenic. Numerous otherantimicrobial agents, such as benzalkonium chloride and related types ofcompounds as hexachlorophene, may also be used as releasing agentsaccording to the disclosed concept.

Other potential releasing materials include fragrances, includingnatural, essential oils and synthetic perfumes, and blends thereof.Typical perfumery materials which may form part of, or possibly thewhole of, the active ingredient include: natural essential oils such aslemon oil, mandarin oil, clove leaf oil, petitgrain oil, cedar wood oil,patchouli oil, lavandin oil, neroli oil, ylang oil, rose absolute orjasmin absolute; natural resins such as labdanum resin or olibanumresin; single perfumery chemicals which may be isolated from naturalsources or manufactured synthetically, as for example alcohols such asgeraniol, nerol, citronellol, linalol, tetrahydrogeraniol,betaphenylethyl alcohol, methyl phenyl carbinol, dimethyl benzylcarbinol, menthol or cedrol; acetates and other esters derived from suchalcohols-aldehydes such as citral, citronellal, hydroxycitronellal,lauric aldehyde, undecylenic aldehyde, cinnamaldehyde, amyl cinnamicaldehyde, vanillin or heliotropin; acetals derived from such aldehydes;ketones such as methyl hexyl ketone, the ionones and methylionones;phenolic compounds such as eugenol and isoeugenol; synthetic musks suchas musk xylene, musk ketone and ethylene brassylate.

It is believed that the higher the active agent concentration in themixture, the greater the absorption, adsorption or releasing capacity(as the case may be) will be of the final composition. However, too highan active agent concentration could cause the entrained polymer to bemore brittle, and the molten mixture of active agent, base polymermaterial and channeling agent to be more difficult to either thermallyform, extrude or injection mold.

In one embodiment, the active agent loading level can range from 10% to80% including any sub-range or value encompassed within by weight withrespect to the total weight of the entrained polymer. In an optionalembodiment, the active agent loading is no less than 20%, optionally noless than 30%, optionally no less than 40%, optionally no less than 50%by weight with respect to the total weight of the entrained polymer. Inanother optional embodiment, the active agent loading is no more than70%, optionally no more than 60%, optionally no more than 50% by weightwith respect to the total weight of the entrained polymer. In anotheroptionally embodiment, the active agent loading is from 20% to 80%,optionally from 20% to 60%, optionally from 20% to 50%, optionally fiom20% to 40%, optionally from 30% to 80%, optionally from 30% to 60%,optionally from 30% to 50%, optionally from 30% to 40%, optionally from40% to 80%, optionally from 40% to 60%, optionally from 40% to 50%.

Optionally, the channeling agent may be provided in a range of 1% to 10%including any sub-range or value encompassed within by weight of theentrained polymer. In an optional embodiment, the channeling agent maybe provided at a range from 1% to 8%, optionally from 1% to 6%,optionally from 1% to 5%, optionally from 1% to 4%, optionally from 1%to 3%, optionally from 2% to 8%, optionally from 2% to 6%, optionallyfrom 2% to 5%, optionally from 2% to 4%, optionally from 2% to 3%,optionally from 3% to 8%, optionally from 3% to 6%, optionally from 3%to 5%, optionally from 3% to 4%, optionally from 4% to 8%, optionallyfrom 4% to 6%, optionally from 4% to 5%. In another optional embodiment,the channeling agent may be provided at 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%,9%, or 10%.

Optionally, the base polymer may range from 10% to 50% including anysub-range or value encompassed within by weight of the entrainedpolymer. In an optional embodiment, the base polymer is no less than20%, optionally no less than 30%, optionally no less than 40% by weightwith respect to the total weight of the entrained polymer. In anotheroptional embodiment, the base polymer is no more than 40%, optionally nomore than 30% by weight with respect to the total weight of theentrained polymer. In another optional embodiment, the base polymer mayrange from 15% to 40%, optionally 20% to 35%, optionally 25% to 30% byweight of the entrained polymer.

Optionally, the flow agent may range from 5% to 50%, any sub-range orvalue encompassed within by weight of the entrained polymer. In anoptional embodiment, the flow agent is no less than 10%, optionally noless than 20%, optionally no less than 30% by weight with respect to thetotal weight of the entrained polymer. In another optional embodiment,the flow agent is no more than 40%, optionally no more than 30% byweight with respect to the total weight of the entrained polymer. Inanother optional embodiment, the flow agent may range from 10% to 40%,optionally from 10% to 35%, optionally from 20% to 40%, optionally from20% to 30%, optionally from 20% to 30% by weight with respect to thetotal weight of the entrained polymer. Optionally, a colorant is added,e.g., at about 2% by weight of the total weight of the entrainedpolymer.

The entrained polymer suitable for an in-line melt adhesion process ofthe current invention can also be characterized by its melt flow index(MFI). Typically, a base polymer such as a polypropylene, has an MFI ofabout 12 g/10 min (ASTM D1238/ISO 1133 standard conditions, omittedhereafter in relation to MFI). A sample desiccant entrained polymerconsistent with the disclosure in U.S. Pat. No. 7,005,459 has an MFIbelow 12 g/10 min. The entrained polymer of the invention has an MFIranging from 200 g/10 min to 5000 g/10 min. In an optional embodiment,the MFI of the entrained polymer is no less than 500 g/10 min,optionally no less than 1000 g/10 min, optionally no less than 1500 g/10min, optionally no less than 2000 g/10 min. In another optionalembodiment, the MFI of the entrained polymer is no more than 4000 g/10min, optionally no more than 3500 g/10 min, optionally no more than 3000g/10 min, optionally no more than 2500 g/10 min. In another optionalembodiment, the MFI of the entrained polymer is in the range from 500g/10 min to 4000 g/10 min, optionally from 500 g/10 min to 3500 g/10min, optionally from 500 g/10 min to 3000 g/10 min, optionally from 500g/10 min to 2500 g/10 min, optionally from 500 g/10 min to 2000 g/10min, optionally from 500 g/10 min to 1500 g/10 min, optionally from 1000g/10 min to 4000 g/10 min, optionally from 1000 g/10 min to 3500 g/10min, optionally from 1000 g/10 min to 3000 g/10 min, optionally from1000 g/10 min to 2500 g/10 min, optionally from 1000 g/10 min to 2000g/10 min, optionally from 1000 g/10 min to 1500 g/10 min, optionallyfrom 1200 g/10 min to 4000 g/10 min, optionally from 1200 g/10 min to3500 g/10 min, optionally from 1200 g/10 min to 3000 g/10 min,optionally from 1200 g/10 min to 2500 g/10 min, optionally from 1200g/10 min to 2000 g/10 min, optionally from 1500 g/10 min to 4000 g/10min, optionally from 1500 g/10 min to 3500 g/10 min, optionally from1500 g/10 min to 3000 g/10 min, optionally from 1500 g/10 min to 2500g/10 min. The relatively high MFI facilitates the flow of the moltenentrained polymer in the in-line dispensing and adhesion process.

The entrained polymer suitable for an in-line melt adhesion process ofthe current invention can additionally or alternatively be characterizedby its viscosity. A sample desiccant entrained polymer consistent withthe disclosure in U.S. Pat. No. 7,005,459 has a viscosity on the orderof 100,000 cP (analyzed using a rheometer with parallel plate geometry,190° C., shear rate 5 Hz for two minutes) (conditions used throughoutand omitted hereafter in relation to viscosity). The entrained polymerof the current invention has a viscosity ranging from 1,000 cP to 50,000cP. In an optional embodiment, the viscosity of the entrained polymer isno more than 40,000 cp, optionally no more than 20,000 cP, optionally nomore than 15,000 cp, optionally no more than 12,000 cp, optionally nomore than 10,000 cp, optionally no more than 8,000 cp, optionally nomore than 6,000 cp, optionally no more than 4,000 cp, optionally no morethan 2,000 cp. In another optional embodiment, the viscosity of theentrained polymer is in a range from 3,000 cp to 40,000 cp, optionallyfrom 3,000 cp to 30,000 cp, optionally from 3,000 cp to 20,000 cp,optionally from 3,000 cp to 15,000 cp, optionally from 3,000 cp to12,000 cp, optionally from 4,000 cp to 40,000 cp, optionally from 4,000ep to 30,000 cp, optionally from 4,000 cp to 20,000 cp, optionally from4,000 cp to 15,000 cp, optionally from 4,000 cp to 12,000 cp, optionallyfrom 6,000 cp to 40,000 cp, optionally from 6,000 cp to 30,000 cp,optionally from 6,000 cp to 20,000 cp, optionally from 6,000 cp to15,000 cp, optionally from 6,000 cp to 12,000 cp, optionally from 8,000cp to 40,000 cp, optionally from 8,000 cp to 30,000 cp, optionally from8,000 cp to 20,000 cp, optionally from 8,000 cp to 15,000 cp, optionallyfrom 8,000 cp to 12,000 cp, optionally from 10,000 cp to 40,000 cp,optionally from 10,000 cp to 30,000 cp, optionally from 10,000 cp to20,000 cp, optionally from 10,000 cp to 15,000 cp, optionally from10,000 cp to 12,000 cp, optionally from 12,000 cp to 40,000 cp,optionally from 12,000 cp to 30,000 cp, optionally from 12,000 cp to20,000 cp, optionally from 12,000 cp to 15,000 cp. The relatively lowviscosity facilitates the flow of the molten entrained polymer in thein-line dispensing and adhesion process.

The current invention provides an entrained polymer that is highlyactive, has good flow properties for large scale high throughput in-lineapplication on a substrate, and enables precise control of dispense toform intricate patterns on a wide range of surfaces or enclosures. Thein-line process may use a pre-formed monolithic entrained polymer as thestarting material. However, the requisite components, such as basepolymer, particular active agent, additive, and channeling agent, mayalso be mixed and heated to a molten form in the same processimmediately prior to application on a substrate. Similarly, anintermediate material containing a subset of the requisite componentsmay be mixed with other requisite component(s) to form the entrainedpolymer composition used in the in-line application process. Thecompositional make-up described above using a monolithic entrainedpolymer as an example applies similarly to the entrained polymercomposition.

FIGS. 1-6 illustrate entrained polymers 10 and various packagingassemblies formed of entrained polymers according to the disclosedconcept. The entrained polymers 10 each include a base polymer material25, a channeling agent 35 and an active agent 30. As shown, thechanneling agent 35 forms interconnecting channels 45 through theentrained polymer 10. At least some of the active agent 30 is containedwithin these channels 45, such that the channels 45 communicate betweenthe active agent 30 and the exterior of the entrained polymer 10 viachannel openings 48 formed at outer surfaces of the entrained polymer10. The active agent 30 can be, for example, any one of a variety ofabsorbing, adsorbing or releasing materials, as described in furtherdetail below. While a channeling agent, e.g., 35, is preferred, thedisclosed concept broadly includes entrained polymers that optionally donot include channeling agents.

Referring to FIG. 1 , an insert 20, constructed from the entrainedpolymer according to an optional embodiment is illustrated. The insert20 is in the form of a plug 55 that may be deposited into a container orother enclosure, or deposited onto a substrate (e.g., foil).

Referring to FIG. 2 , a cross-sectional view is shown of the plug 55that has been constructed from an entrained polymer 10 comprising thebase polymer 25 that has been uniformly blended with the active agent 30and the hydrophilic agent or channeling agent 35. In the illustration ofFIG. 2 , the entrained polymer has been solidified so thatinterconnecting channels 45 have formed throughout the entrained polymer10 to establish passages throughout the solidified plug 55. As may beappreciated from both FIGS. 1 and 2 , the passages terminate in channelopenings 48 at exterior surfaces of the plug 55.

FIG. 3 illustrates the embodiment of a plug 55 similar in constructionand makeup to the plug 55 of FIG. 2 , where interconnecting channels 45are very fine compared to those of FIG. 2 . This can result from the useof a dimer agent (i.e., a plasticizer) together with a channeling agent35. The dimer agent may enhance the compatibility between the basepolymer 25 and the channeling agent 35. This enhanced compatibility isfacilitated by a lowered viscosity of the blend, which may promote amore thorough blending of the base polymer material 25 and channelingagent 35, which under normal conditions can resist combination into auniform solution. Upon solidification of the entrained polymer 10 havinga dimer agent added thereto, the interconnecting channels 45 which areformed therethrough have a greater dispersion and a smaller porosity,thereby establishing a greater density of interconnecting channelsthroughout the plug 55.

Interconnecting channels 45, such as those disclosed herein, facilitatetransmission of a desired material, such as moisture, gas or odor,through the base polymer material 25, which generally resists permeationof these materials, thus acting as a barrier thereto. For this reason,the base polymer material 25 itself acts as a barrier substance withinwhich an active agent 30 may be entrained. The interconnecting channels45 formed of the channeling agent 35 provide pathways for the desiredmaterial to move through the entrained polymer 10. Without theseinterconnecting channels 45, it is believed that relatively smallquantities of the desired material would be transmitted through the basepolymer material 25 to or from the active agent 30. In the case in whichthe desired material is transmitted to the active agent 30, it may beabsorbed by the active agent 30, for example in embodiments in which theactive agent 30 is an active agent such as a desiccant or an oxygenabsorber. In the case in which the desired material is transmitted fromthe active agent 30, it may be released from the active agent 30, forexample in embodiments in which the active agent 30 is a releasingmaterial, such as a fragrance or gas releasing material.

FIG. 4 illustrates an embodiment of an entrained polymer 10 according tothe disclosed concept, in which the active agent 30 is an absorbing oradsorbing material. The arrows indicate the path of the selectedmaterial, for example moisture or gas, from an exterior of the entrainedpolymer 10, through the channels 45, to the particles of active agent30, which absorb or adsorb the selected material.

FIG. 5 illustrates embodiments of an end product of the method accordingto the disclosed concept. An entrained polymer structure 75 formed ofthe entrained polymer 10 of the invention is used in combination with abarrier sheet 80 to form a composite according to an aspect of theinvention. The characteristics of the entrained polymer structure 75 aresimilar to those described with respect to the plug 55. The barriersheet 80 may be a substrate such as foil and/or a polymer with lowmoisture or oxygen permeability. The substrate 80 is compatible with theentrained polymer structure 75 and is thus configured to thermally bondto the entrained polymer structure 75, when the entrained polymerstructure 75 solidifies after dispensing, as discussed below.

FIG. 6 illustrates an embodiment in which the entrained polymerstructure 75 and the substrate 80 are combined to form a packaging wraphaving active characteristics at an interior surface formed by theentrained polymer 10 in the entrained polymer structure 75, and vaporresistant characteristics at an exterior surface formed by the barriersheet or substrate 80. In this embodiment, the entrained polymerstructure 75 occupies a portion of the barrier sheet or substrate 80.Methods according to the disclosed concept for making the entrainedpolymer structure 75 and adhering it to the substrate 80 are describedbelow.

In one embodiment, the sheets of FIG. 5 are joined together to form anactive package 85, as shown in FIG. 6 . As shown, two laminates orcomposites are provided, each formed of an entrained polymer structure75 joined with a barrier sheet or substrate 80. The sheet laminates arestacked, with the entrained polymer structures 75 facing one another, soas to be disposed on an interior of the package, and are joined at asealing region 90, formed about a perimeter of the sealed region of thepackage interior.

The primary purpose of the entrained polymer of the current invention isfor use in an in-line production process to apply a particulate ormineral entrained polymer to a compatible substrate and to adhere the(initially molten and subsequently solidified) entrained polymer to thesubstrate via a thermal bond. However, the use of the entrained polymerof the current invention is not so limited. The current inventionprovides a high density, high melt flow index, and low viscosity activepolymer adaptable for a high throughput in-line production process.

Exemplary Methods According to Current Invention

Methods for applying and adhering an entrained polymer structure to asuitable substrate according to aspects of the invention will now bedescribed.

The current invention also provides a method for forming and adhering anentrained polymer structure to a substrate, using the entrained polymeror the entrained polymer composition discussed above. The method isillustrated below, using as an example a pre-formed monolithic entrainedpolymer as the starting material.

First, the entrained polymer is introduced to a feeder. Heat is appliedto convert the entrained polymer to a molten state.

Second, the flow of the entrained polymer in a molten state is conveyedto an applicator. Heat may be necessary along the flow path to maintainthe flow rate and the plasticity of the molten entrained polymer.

Third, the molten entrained polymer is dispensed via a dispenser on asurface of a substrate in a desired pattern or shape. The loading iscontrolled in a precise manner via, for example, pneumatic pressureapplied to the applicator, advance rate of substrate, and discharge timeof dispenser. The surface compatibility enables bonding of the entrainedpolymer with the substrate. Upon sufficient cooling, the depositedentrained polymer solidifies and forms an entrained polymer structure onthe surface of the substrate. The pattern or shape of the deposit is notparticularly limited. For example, the entrained polymer structure maybe in a form of a sheet, a film, a bead, a dot, a strip or a swirl.

The method is not limited to using pre-formed entrained polymer as thestarting material. Likewise, the components of the entrained polymer mayalso be mixed and heated to form a molten composition sharing the samecompositional features of the pre-formed entrained polymer.

The inventors have discovered certain adaptations to single screwextruder equipment and to processes for using the same that overcome theprocess difficulties discussed above. The extruder, as with typicalextruders, provides for transport and melting of feed and pressurebuild-up of melted polymer for dispensing. Typically, an extruderincludes a hollow chamber with heating zones and a threaded shaft orscrew which rotates along its central axis. The extruder typicallyincludes a hopper at one end, which provides for feeding of polymermaterial into the extruder, typically in the form of 2-10 mm sized solidpellets.

Referring now to FIG. 7 , them is shown an optional embodiment of a hotmelt dispensing apparatus 100 for carrying out methods for forming andadhering an entrained polymer structure to a substrate. The hot meltdispensing apparatus 100 includes a feeder 102 (optionally, an extruderor a loader) for providing a flow of particulate or mineral entrainedpolymer in molten form. The feeder 102 includes an exit 106 to which ahose 104 (optionally more than one hose) is coupled. The hose 104includes an internal lumen 108 that is in fluid communication with theexit 106 to receive flow of the particulate or mineral entrained polymerin molten form. The lumen 108 terminates at an applicator 110 to whichthe entrained polymer in molten form is conveyed. The applicator 110comprises a dispenser 112 configured to deliver the entrained polymer inmolten form to a surface or enclosure in precise amounts andconfigurations (i.e., in a predetermined shape).

In the embodiment shown, the dispenser 112 has deposited a particulateor mineral entrained polymer in molten form to the surface 116 of asubstrate 114, forming and adhering an entrained polymer structure 118thereon. Optionally, the substrate 114 is a foil and the surface 116 isa polymer sealing layer (which is compatible with the base polymermaterial of the particulate or mineral entrained polymer) to helpeffectuate a thermal bond between the structure 118 and the surface 116.The lumen 108 and/or the dispenser 112 (preferably both) are heated tomaintain a molten state of the entrained polymer when conveyed from thefeeder 102, through the lumen 108 and out the dispenser 112. Heating thedispenser 112 in this way also may help facilitate precise formation ofthe entrained polymer into the predetermined shape.

Optionally, the method using the apparatus 100 is carried out as part ofan automated, in-line production process. To facilitate this, forexample, a conveyor belt may transport substrate 114 in a discontinuousor a continuous manner for automated depositing of molten entrainedpolymer thereon. For example, the conveyor belt may move in direction Dto transport the units or a sheet of substrate 114 as part of thein-line process. The in-line process may be, for example, a packageproduction process. The entrained polymer structure 118 and substrate114 together form a composite, which may be a portion of a flexiblepackage, pouch or blister pack, for example.

Optionally, the dispenser 118 comprises a valve that alternates betweena closed state and an open state so as to precisely form the entrainedpolymer structure 118 in the predetermined shape. Optionally, thedispenser 118 comprises a hot melt precision slot-die extrusion coatinghead. This type of dispenser configuration may help ensure accurate heatdistribution and stability, and provide precise repeatability. Theentrained polymer will flow through a deposition nozzle of the dispenserbecause the applied shear thinning and pressure shears the bond andinduces a breakdown in the material elasticity, therefore, causingmaterial to flow. The elasticity recovers immediately after leaving thenozzle and the entrained polymer solidifies to maintain its shape andstrength. The result is a strip or other structure ofa solidifiedentrained polymer that is configured to thermally bond to a compatiblesubstrate.

Optionally, in any embodiment, a storage or material supply tank may beconfigured to store a pseudoplastic high viscosity material and supplythe material (e.g., solid entrained polymer pellets) to a pump. The pumpis configured to apply a force to the material by shear thinning thepseudoplastic high viscosity material to reduce material viscosity, thuscausing the material to flow.

If an extruder is used to feed hot melt entrained polymer, means arerequired to position and dispense the material onto a substrate. Thisfor example may be provided by a flexible or rigid hose that isconnected to and in fluid communication with an exit of the extruder, asdiscussed above. The flexible hose includes a lumen through which themolten entrained polymer is conveyed, the lumen being heated preferablyat or above the temperature of the polymer exiting the extruder. Such ahigh temperature is configured to prevent heat loss that could inhibitflow. The entrained polymer may flow through a deposition nozzle becausethe applied shear thinning and pressure shears the bond and induces abreakdown in the material elasticity therefore causing material to flow.The elasticity recovers immediately after leaving the nozzle and theentrained polymer solidifies to maintain its shape and strength. Theresult is a strip or other structure in a desired shape of a solidifiedentrained polymer that is configured to thermally bond to a compatiblesubstrate.

Optionally, in any embodiment, the lumen 108 of the hose 104 that is incontact with the molten entrained polymer is heated to a temperature ator above that of the material exiting the extruder. Optionally, in anyembodiment, the dispenser 112 is heated to maintain the molten state ofthe entrained polymer and to facilitate precise formation of theentrained polymer into the predetermined shape in the dispensing step.Optionally, in any embodiment, the apparatus 100 is incrementally heatedsuch that the dispensed molten entrained polymer is in a heated andpliable state (in the form of a hot melt with inherent adhesiveproperties) in the dispensing step to facilitate controlled and variabledispensing onto the substrate 114. This may be achieved, for example,through heating the hoses and/or dispenser, as described above.Optionally, in any embodiment, the dispenser 112 is configured to beadaptable (e.g., with replacement heads) to dispense a variety ofentrained polymer shapes and material volumes from a single materialsource as needed.

Optionally, in any embodiment, to integrate the method of the disclosedconcept into a processing line, the molten entrained polymer compositionof the present invention may be conveyed into a metering pump supplyingthe heated hoses and the use of pneumatically controlled dispensers tofinitely control the dispensing. Optionally, processing feedback may beused to control the supply of material from the extruder to the meteringpump and from the metering pump to the dispenser. For example,programmable logic controllers may be used to adjust the on/off andspeed of the feeder (e.g., extruder) to maintain a supply of moltenmaterial to the metering pump(s). Optionally, a metering pump could becoupled to a manifold that would supply multiple heated hoses anddispensers.

The primary intended use of methods according to the invention are forapplying a particulate or mineral entrained polymer to a compatiblesubstrate to adhere the (initially molten and subsequently solidified)entrained polymer to the substrate via a thermal bond. However,alternative aspects of the invention may include methods for dispensingthe entrained polymer to a substrate or into a compartment wherein athermal bond is not created and alternative means of securing theentrained polymer and substrate are required. In such a case, much ofthe process in terms of running the material through the extruder andadaptations to the extruder equipment would be the same. However, amechanical interlock, a the layer between the entrained polymer and thesubstrate, an adhesive additive mixed into the polymer or some othermeans (as an alternative to a thermal bond) may be provided to securethe entrained polymer to the substrate or compartment. For example, inthe electronics industry, a substrate or compartment may includeelectronic components and empty space surrounding the electroniccomponents for which it is desired to provide an active material. e.g.,entrained polymer. Rather than injection molding a separate partcomprising an entrained polymer and then assembling such part to thesubstrate or compartment, methods according to an aspect of thedisclosed concept would enable one to dispense and fill a desired spaceon a substrate or compartment with a particulate or mineral entrainedpolymer. Such an in-line process would obviate the need for a separateassembling step. In the event the substrate or compartment surface isincompatible with the entrained polymer such that no thermal bond can beformed, a mechanical interlock or structure may be provided to securethe solidified entrained polymer in place. For example, a cover may beplaced over the substrate or compartment to form an assembly, therebyretaining the entrained polymer in place.

Exemplary Products According to Current Invention

The composite formed of the entrained polymer structure and thesubstrate adhered thereto may be a portion of a flexible package, pouchor blister pack. FIG. 6 shows an example of the products manufactured bythe invented entrained polymer and the method of manufacture. Theseproducts containing the active agent may be used directly.

The invention will be illustrated in more detail with reference to thefollowing Examples, but it should be understood that the invention isnot deemed to be limited thereto.

Example 1

Desiccant entrained polymer samples according to Table I below wereprepared in the form of extruded pellets.

TABLE 1 Melt Flow Estimated Sam- Weight Index¹ Viscosity² Dispense pleComponents % (g/10 min) (cP) Outcome 1 Molecular Sieve 4A 40 307.8Carbowax 4000 2 Polypropylene 58 2 Molecular Sieve 4A 60 197.5 Carbowax4000 2 Polypropylene 38 3 Molecular Sieve 4A 50 1563.9 <10,000 ExcellentCarbowax 4000 2 LDPE 24 PE 143 Wax 24 4 Molecular Sieve 4A 50 NA due toCarbowax 4000 2 splatter LDPE 2 PE 143 Wax 46 5 Molecular Sieve 4A 402310 <10,000 Excellent Carbowax 4000 2 LDPE 30 PE 143 Wax 28 6 MolecularSieve 4A 40 548 Carbowax 4000 2 LDPE 8 PE 143 Wax 50 7 Molecular Sieve4A 50 152 54,000 Carbowax 4000 2 LDPE 24 PE 105 Wax 24 8 Molecular Sieve4A 50 186.1 Carbowax 4000 2 LDPE 2 PE 105 Wax 46 9 Molecular Sieve 4A 40273.2 37,000 Carbowax 4000 2 LDPE 30 PE 105 Wax 28 10 Molecular Sieve 4A40 605.7 Carbowax 4000 2 LDPE 8 PE 105 Wax 50 ¹Melt flow index weremeasured according to the ASTM D1238/ISO 1133 method. ²Viscosity wasmeasured using a rheometer with a parallel plate geometry, at 190° C.,with shearing at a rate of 5 Hz for two minutes.

Example 2

Based on the MFI and the performance of the material in the MFImeasurement, Samples 3 and 4 in Example 1 were selected for the hot-meltin-line process according to one aspect of the invented method.

The inventors reconfigured an extruder to create an extruder assemblyand developed a desiccant entrained polymer composition to practice amethod according to an optional aspect of the invention. The extruderassembly successfully extruded a mineral entrained polymer from a pelletform, conveyed the molten material through a heated hose and dispensedit out of a heated hot melt gun or dispenser to form an entrainedpolymer structure adhered to a foil substrate.

A typical extruder would dispense directly through a die to produce aparticular shape of material, e.g., solid or hollow strands or tubes.Uniquely, an extruder assembly according to the disclosed concept,included a heated hose coupled to the exit of the extruder and a heateddispenser coupled to the dispensing end of the hoses. The lumen of thehose was heated to a temperature at or above the material exiting theextruder so as to maintain the entrained polymer in a molten state asthe polymer was conveyed under pressure from the extruder through thehose. Closing the dispenser allowed pressure to build up in the system.Opening and closing of the dispenser allowed the material to flow in avery controlled and precise manner. The base polymer used in theformulation was compatible with a polymer coating (polymer seal layer)on the foil substrate. This allowed the molten state of the mineralentrained polymer (which was further maintained via the heateddispenser) to mix and adhere to the coated substrate, due to similarproperties of the contacting materials. The result was a solidifiedentrained polymer structure formed and adhered onto the foil substrate.

FIGS. 8 and 9 are photographs illustrating an entrained polymer film andstrip, respectively, adhered to a sheet using an optional embodiment ofa hot melt dispensing apparatus.

While the invention has been described in detail and with reference tospecific examples thereof, it will be apparent to one skilled in the artthat various changes and modifications can be made therein withoutdeparting from the spirit and scope thereof.

What is claimed is: 1-30. (canceled)
 31. A method for forming andadhering an entrained polymer strip to a substrate, comprising the stepsof: a. extruding an entrained polymer composition in molten form,wherein the entrained polymer composition comprises a mixture of a basepolymer and a particulate active agent, the particulate active agentbeing from 20% to 80% by weight with respect to the total weight of theentrained polymer; b. providing a substrate having a surface forreceiving application of the entrained polymer composition, and c.applying the entrained polymer composition in molten form in the shapeof a strip to a part of the surface of the substrate to form thereon asolidified entrained polymer strip, wherein the entrained polymercomposition adheres to the part of the surface of the substrate bythermal bonding, wherein the entrained polymer structure is formed uponcooling and solidification of the entrained polymer composition, whereinthe method is carried out using a hot melt dispensing apparatuscomprising: i. an extruder for blending and melting the entrainedpolymer composition and for providing a flow of the entrained polymercomposition in molten form through the apparatus; ii. a hose having aninternal lumen in fluid communication with an exit of the extruder toreceive the flow of the entrained polymer composition in molten form;and iii. an applicator in fluid communication with the hose, theapplicator comprising a dispenser for dispensing the molten entrainedpolymer composition, wherein the lumen terminates at the applicator towhich the entrained polymer composition in molten form is conveyedthrough the hose, and wherein the dispenser applies the entrainedpolymer composition in molten form to the surface of the substrate. 32.The method of claim 31, wherein the particulate active agent comprisesan antimicrobial agent.
 33. The method claim 31, wherein the particulateactive agent comprises a desiccant.
 34. The method of claim 33, whereinthe particulate active agent comprises a starch desiccant.
 35. Themethod of claim 31, wherein the particulate active agent comprisesmolecular sieve.
 36. The method of claim 31, wherein the particulateactive agent comprises silica gel.
 37. The method of claim 36, whereinthe particulate active agent further comprises an antimicrobial agent.38. The method of claim 37, wherein the entrained polymer compositioncomprises a channeling agent that forms passages that penetrate throughthe base polymer in the solidified entrained polymer.
 39. The method ofclaim 31, wherein the entrained polymer composition comprises achanneling agent that forms passages that penetrate through the basepolymer in the solidified entrained polymer.
 40. The method of claim 31,wherein the substrate is a foil and the surface of the substratecomprises a polymer sealing layer on the foil.
 41. The method of claim40, wherein the particulate active agent is a molecular sieve and thesubstrate and solidified entrained polymer adhered thereto form acomposite, the composite forming a portion of a pouch or blister pack.42. A method for forming and adhering entrained polymer structures tosubstrates in an automated package production line using a hot meltdispensing apparatus, the method comprising the steps of: a. providing ahot melt dispensing apparatus comprising: (i) an extruder for blendingand melting entrained polymer composition and providing a flow of theentrained polymer composition in molten form through the extruder andfrom an exit of the extruder; and (ii) a manifold operatively connectedto and in fluid communication with the exit of the extruder, themanifold being configured to convey the entrained polymer composition inmolten form to a plurality of hoses operatively connected to and influid communication with the manifold, each hose having an internallumen configured to receive flow of the entrained polymer composition inmolten form, each hose leading to a dispenser for dispensing the moltenentrained polymer composition; b. extruding through the extruder theentrained polymer composition in molten form, the entrained polymercomposition comprising a mixture of a base polymer and a particulateactive agent; c. conveying the entrained polymer composition in moltenform from the extruder, through the manifold, through each hose andthrough the dispenser of each respective hose; d. providing a substrate,which is in solid form, having a surface for receiving application ofthe entrained polymer composition, and e. dispensing from each dispenserthe entrained polymer composition in molten form and applying theentrained polymer composition in a predetermined shape to the surface ofthe substrate to form thereon a solidified entrained polymer structure,wherein the entrained polymer composition adheres to the surface of thesubstrate by thermal bonding, wherein the entrained polymer structure isformed upon cooling and solidification of the entrained polymercomposition, the solidified entrained polymer structure comprising anouter boundary, the surface of the substrate extending outwardly beyondthe outer boundary.
 43. The method of claim 42, wherein the particulateactive agent comprises a desiccant.
 44. The method of claim 42, whereinthe particulate active agent comprises silica gel and an antimicrobialagent.
 45. The method of claim 44, wherein the entrained polymercomposition comprises a channeling agent that forms passages thatpenetrate through the base polymer in the solidified entrained polymer.46. The method of claim 42, wherein the particulate active agentcomprises molecular sieve.
 47. A method for forming and adheringentrained polymer composition in a repeated predetermined pattern to asubstrate in an automated package production line, the method comprisingthe steps of: a. extruding an entrained polymer composition in moltenform, wherein the entrained polymer composition comprises a mixture of abase polymer and a particulate active agent, the particulate activeagent being from 20% to 80% by weight with respect to the total weightof the entrained polymer; b. providing a substrate having a surface forreceiving application of the entrained polymer composition; c. applyingthe entrained polymer composition in molten form in the shape of apredetermined pattern to a part of the surface of the substrate to formthereon a solidified entrained polymer pattern, wherein the entrainedpolymer composition adheres to the part of the surface of the substrateby thermal bonding, wherein the entrained polymer composition in thepredetermined pattern is formed upon cooling and solidification of theentrained polymer composition; and d. repeating steps (b) and (c) so asto form and adhere the repeated predetermined pattern to the substratein the automated package production line, wherein the method is carriedout using a hot melt dispensing apparatus comprising: i. an extruder forblending and melting the entrained polymer composition and providing aflow of the entrained polymer composition in molten form through theapparatus; ii. a hose having an internal lumen in fluid communicationwith an exit of the extruder to receive the flow of the entrainedpolymer composition in molten form; and iii. an applicator in fluidcommunication with the hose, the applicator comprising a dispenser fordispensing the molten entrained polymer composition, wherein the lumenterminates at the applicator to which the entrained polymer compositionin molten form is conveyed through the hose, and wherein the dispenserapplies the entrained polymer composition in molten form to the surfaceof the substrate in the predetermined pattern, wherein the lumen isheated as the entrained polymer composition is conveyed through the hoseto the dispenser to maintain the molten form of the entrained polymercomposition, wherein the dispenser is heated to maintain the molten formof the entrained polymer composition for applying to the surface of thesubstrate and to facilitate precise formation of the entrained polymercomposition into the repeated predetermined pattern.
 48. The method ofclaim 47, wherein the particulate active agent comprises a desiccant.49. The method of claim 47, wherein the particulate active agentcomprises silica gel and an antimicrobial agent, the entrained polymercomposition further comprising a channeling agent that forms passagesthat penetrate through the base polymer in the solidified entrainedpolymer.
 50. The method of claim 47, wherein the particulate activeagent comprises molecular sieve.